Author: Erin Snyman – Head of Global Tax at Sail International
Emigrating from South Africa is a significant life decision that comes with a multitude of considerations, both personally and financially. Among these, understanding the tax consequences and ensuring compliance with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) is of paramount importance. Failing to follow the correct emigration process can lead to penalties costing you thousands! We’ve put together an emigration checklist that not only covers the practical aspects but also highlights the critical tax-related considerations when moving abroad.
- Obtain Professional Advice
Before embarking on your emigration journey, it is crucial to seek advice from tax professionals who specialize in South African emigration and international tax. Insights into the tax implications of your move and effective planning are crucial in this process.
- Determine Your Tax Residency Status
Understanding your tax residency status is the cornerstone of managing your tax affairs when emigrating. South Africa has a residency-based tax system, meaning that residents are taxed on their worldwide income. Non-residents, on the other hand, are only taxed on income generated within South Africa’s borders. Establish your tax residency status accurately to ensure you comply with tax laws and don’t end up being double taxed.
- Inform SARS of Your Emigration
Notify SARS of your intention to emigrate by completing the necessary forms. Failure to do so can result in ongoing tax obligations in South Africa, even after you’ve left. Keep in mind that emigration involves more than just physically leaving the country; it’s a formal process with tax consequences. But this doesn’t mean you have to formally emigrate with the SARB. This is a bigger discussion and may not be necessary for everyone.
- Do I need to liquidate South African Assets
Consider whether you want to or should be selling or liquidating your South African assets, such as property or investments before emigrating. Capital gains tax (CGT) may apply, but careful planning can minimize its impact by making sure these transactions are structured efficiently. Note, you don’t have to sell your assets, but any income you earn on these would still be taxed in South Africa.
- Open a foreign bank account
You’ll need a non-resident bank account to manage your finances abroad.
- Manage Retirement Funds
Determine what to do with your South African retirement funds. You can choose to cash them in, transfer them to a retirement annuity, or preserve them in a preservation fund. Each option has different tax implications.
- Review International Tax Treaties
Research the tax treaties between South Africa and your destination country. These treaties can impact the taxation of your income and assets in both countries. Ensure you understand how they apply to your situation.
- File All Outstanding Tax Returns
Ensure that you’re up to date with your tax obligations in South Africa. This includes filing all outstanding tax returns and settling any outstanding tax liabilities before emigrating.
- Keep Records
Maintain meticulous records of your financial transactions and travel arrangements, especially during the emigration process. These records will be invaluable for tax compliance and any potential audits in the future and for making sure your tax residency (and date of change) is accurate.
- Plan for Future Tax Compliance
Even after emigrating, you may have ongoing tax obligations in South Africa, such as rental income or dividends from South African assets and investments. Stay informed about your responsibilities and engage with tax professionals as needed.
- Your Children’s Tax Status
Don’t forget to also consider your childrens’ tax status and registration with SARS. Even though they may be minors.
- Future Inheritances
Not something one would normally consider, but if you are likely to receive a material inheritance in the future you may prefer to remain registered with SARS to avoid future admin headaches.
The Importance of Compliance
Compliance with SARS regulations during the emigration process is not optional; it’s essential. Failing to follow the correct procedures can lead to penalties, interest, and unnecessary tax leakage. Additionally, non-compliance can result in difficulties accessing your South African assets or returning to the country in the future.
At SAIL, we are here to help you navigate these hurdles and make your exit as efficient and stress free as possible to save you time and money while keeping you compliant with SARS and the tax authorities in your new country.
Book a FREE 15-minute consult with one of our advisors here.